When Are Kids Dental Crowns Necessary?

When a child’s tooth becomes damaged or severely decayed, a pediatric dentist may recommend a kids dental crown as an effective solution. These crowns restore the tooth’s function, strength, and appearance while preventing further complications. While baby teeth are temporary, they are a fundamental part of speech development, proper chewing, and guiding the permanent teeth into place. Therefore, protecting and keeping them intact is of the utmost importance.

An overview of kids dental crowns

Kids dental crowns are specially designed tooth-shaped caps that cover a child’s damaged or weakened tooth. They provide essential protection while maintaining the tooth’s natural function. These crowns contain durable materials such as stainless steel, zirconia, or composite resin. These materials ensure the crowns can withstand the daily wear and tear of chewing, biting, and speaking.

Signs that a crown may be necessary

A pediatric dentist may recommend a dental crown for children in the following situations:

• Extensive tooth decay: A crown is often required when tooth decay has progressed to the point where a filling would not adequately repair the tooth. In addition to protecting the affected area, dental crowns also stop the decay from spreading.
• Tooth fracture or breakage: Accidents like falling or biting down on something hard can cause teeth to crack or break. A crown can help restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and appearance.
• Protection after a root canal: While root canal therapy can save a severely infected tooth, the procedure itself can weaken the tooth since it entails removing the pulp from the inside. After treatment, the dentist places a crown to prevent further weakening or damage to the treated tooth.
• Cosmetic reasons: Crowns are an effective cosmetic solution for severely discolored or abnormally shaped teeth. Crowns cover the affected tooth completely and are a cosmetic solution to make the tooth look healthier, straighter, and whiter.
• A dental bridge: Neighboring teeth are necessary for dental bridges to remain securely in place. The teeth surrounding the gap will receive crowns to anchor the bridge.
• Tooth erosion: The tooth enamel can erode in patients who suffer from acid reflux, an eating disorder, or eat many acidic foods. This can cause the tooth to deteriorate and weaken over time. A crown can restore the original shape and function.

How to get a kids dental crown

Placing a kids dental crown typically requires one or two visits to the dental office. The dentist will examine the affected tooth and remove decay before shaping it to ensure the crown will fit. Depending on the material, the dentist may place a pre-made stainless steel crown. This is common for pediatric dental crowns and can typically be done in a single visit.

In other cases, the dentist may take impressions for a custom crown, requiring the parent to bring their child back to place the crown. Either way, the dentist will fit the crown over the tooth with dental cement. They will make adjustments as necessary to ensure it is secure and comfortable.

Caring for dental crowns

While kids dental crowns are durable, proper care is essential to ensure longevity. Parents should encourage good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing on a daily basis. They should also avoid giving their child sticky or hard foods that may dislodge the crown. Additionally, regular dental checkups can help monitor the health of the crown and the surrounding teeth.